Sporting Device

ABSTRACT

A system and method for a sporting device. The sporting device has a foot plate supported by a central plate. Below the foot plate is a central body with a void, and the central plate fits within the void. The central plate can rotate relative to the central body allowing the foot plate to rotate. A user can use the device to allow and increase the rotation of the foot during a swing.

PRIORITY

The present invention claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/879,018 filed Jul. 26, 2019 and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 29/721,342 filed Jan. 20, 2020, which is a continuation of Ser. No. 16/425,527 filed May 29, 2019, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/839,865 filed Apr. 29, 2019, the entirety of both of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Technical Field

The present invention relates to a system and method for using a sporting device when training or playing various sports.

Description of Related Art

Many sports such as golf or baseball require applying a torque and rotating a foot. As an example, when striking a golf ball the user's back foot should rotate upon swinging. There is a need for a device which can be used during training or play to assist with the foot rotation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the invention are set forth in the appended claims. The invention itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a top view of a sporting device in one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a sporting device in one embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of a foot plate in one embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a central body in one embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of a base in one embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a central cover in one embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of a sporting device with a foot extension in one embodiment;.

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a foot extension in one embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of a stop in one embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of a sporting device in one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Several embodiments of Applicant's invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. Unless otherwise noted, like elements will be identified by identical numbers throughout all figures. The invention illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element which is not specifically disclosed herein.

FIG. 1 is a top view of a sporting device in one embodiment. The sporting device 100 can be used in virtually any sport wherein a foot needs to be rotated during play. The sporting device 100 can be used as a training tool to assist the user in understanding, measuring, and/or controlling the degree of foot rotation. While it can be used during training, the sporting device 100 can also be used during play. Further, while embodiments will be discussed in reference to golf and baseball, this is for illustrative purposes only. This device can be utilized in other sports such as cricket, football, etc.

FIG. 1 shows a foot plate 101 which is slightly suspended relative to the central cover 103. These parts will be described in more detail below herein.

The size and dimensions of the device 100 can vary depending upon the application. In some embodiments the foot plate 101 is sized to fit a single foot. Furthermore, the materials of the device 100 can also vary. The device can comprise metal, plastics, rubber, and combinations thereof.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a sporting device in one embodiment. FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of assembly allowing the foot plate 101 to rotate relative to the central body 102. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that other various tools, parts, etc. can be used to accomplish the goal of having a rotatable foot plate 101.

At the top of the device is the foot plate 101. The foot plate 101 rotates relative to the device 100. As will be described in more detail below, the rotating foot plate 101 reduces friction compared to a foot pivoting on the ground. Because of this reduced friction, the foot is allowed to pivot and rotate, allowing a more open swing. Golfers, as an example, should open their hips when they swing. The back foot should pivot to allow this to happen. Unfortunately, many golfers do not open their hips and the swing suffers. By reducing the friction on the foot plate 101, the momentum of a swing forces the foot to pivot and allow the hip to correctly open. The same is true for a baseball swing. By reducing the friction at the foot plate 101, the user is trained to rotate.

Turning briefly to FIG. 3, FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of a foot plate in one embodiment. The foot plate 101 can comprise virtually any shape. As depicted the foot plate 101 is circular which allows for easy rotation. The foot plate 101 can comprise features, such as friction knubs 109, which extend outwardly beyond the generally planar face of the foot plate 101. The friction knubs 109 provide for increased grip, allowing the foot to grip the foot plate 101. In one embodiment the foot plate 101 comprises rubber or other material which provides for increased grip. In one embodiment the foot plate 101 raises slightly above the beneath cover 103 so as to freely rotate with reduced friction.

Turning back to FIG. 2, in one embodiment, located beneath the foot plate 101 is the intermediate plate 105. The intermediate plate 105 rests within a void of the central cover 103. As shown the intermediate plate 105 is circular and has an internal void to allow the ball bearings and axis 110 to pass. The intermediate plate 105 raises the foot plate 101 and provides a surface which can support the weight of the foot plate 101 and the user's foot. In one embodiment the intermediate part 105 rotates freely with the foot plate 101.

As noted, the intermediate part 105 fits within a central void in the central cover 103. Turning briefly to FIG. 6, FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a central cover in one embodiment. As can be seen, the central cover 103, the intermediate plate 105, and the ball bearing lock 107, discussed in more detail below, are concentric as depicted. In one embodiment, they are approximately co-planar. In other embodiments, the intermediate plate 105 is slightly raised compared to the surrounding central cover 103.

The cover 103 serves the purpose of covering the central portion 102, described below. It can provide a more refined finish compared to the central portion 102.

Turning back to FIG. 2, beneath the cover 103 is the central body 102. The central body 102 is shown in FIG. 4. The central body 102 is a stationary body which includes an internal cavity or void. The internal cavity is filled with a central plate 104. The central plate 104 rotates relative to the stationary central body 102. The central plate 104 also comprises a central internal void. As depicted, the internal void in the central plate 104 is circular. Inside the void of the central plate 104 is an axis 110. This is the axis around which the central plate 104 can rotate. The axis 110 can comprise any shape or device which allows the central plate 104 to rotate. In one embodiment, and as depicted, the axis 110 comprises a cylindrical body which is coupled along its periphery to the external central plate 104 via ball bearings 106. Ball bearings 106 reduce friction between two bodies and allow them to rotate relative to one another. Thus, in one embodiment the axis 110 is stationary or fixed, and the ball bearings 106 allow the central plate 104 to rotate relative to the axis 110. As an example, when weight is applied to the central plate 104, the central plate 104 will be able to rotate about the axis 110.

As shown, the central plate 104 is located in an internal, circular cavity of the central body 102. In one embodiment, the central body 102 comprises one or more blocks 111 which protrude inwardly into the central void. The blocks 111 coincide with an outer void 112 of the central plate 104. The outer void 112 is located along the periphery of the central plate 104. The blocks 111 extend within the outer void 112 and control the degrees of rotation. The longer the outer void 112, the greater the degrees of rotation before the plate 104 encounters a block 111. As can be seen in FIG. 4, if the plate 104 is rotated 45 degrees in either direction, the plate 104 will encounter the block 111, and the block 111 will prevent any further rotation. If the length of the outer void 112 is increased, the allowed degree rotation is increased. The possible degrees of rotational freedom can vary from one degree to 359 degrees. In one embodiment the device allows 45 degrees. In other embodiment the device allows between 15 and 90 degrees. In other embodiments the device allows between 30 and 180 degrees. Different applications will require varying degrees of rotational freedom. In one embodiment the central plate 104 is interchangeable and can be replaced with a central plate 104 of different outer void lengths 112. As an example, if a user wants to increase the rotational freedom, the user can replace the central plate 104 with a new central plate 104 having an increased outer void length 112.

While the embodiment depicted shows two blocks 111, this is for illustrative purposes only. In other embodiments a single block 111 is used, whereas in other embodiments, more than two blocks 111 are used. Further, while one embodiment has been depicted wherein the void is located on the inner central plate 104 and the blocks 111 extend outward, the inverse is also utilized in certain embodiments. In such embodiments the blocks 111 extend outwardly from the central plate 104 and the void allowing passage of the block is located on the interior periphery of the central body 102.

As shown the central body 102, and the device 100, comprise a handle 113 for easy carrying. The device 100 can have other features for hanging, storing, etc.

Returning back to FIG. 2, depicted below the central body 102 is the ball bearing assembly 106. As noted, the ball bearing assembly 106 reduces friction and provides rotation between two parts. The ball bearing assembly 106 includes locking ends 107 which ensures the ball bearings stay within the assembly 106.

Located below the central body 102 is the base 108. FIG. 5 is a bottom view of a base in one embodiment. The base provides a flat, generally planar, surface upon which the rest of the device 100 can sit. As shown the base comprises coupling holes 114 which allow the various components to be secured to one another via screws, bolts, or the like. Thus, the base 108 can be coupled to the central body 102 and the cover 103 via the coupling holes 114. Likewise, the ball bearing assembly 106, including the locks can be coupled to the base 108.

The base can comprise features such as spikes, cleats, etc. to help grip into the ground. In other embodiments, the base simply rests upon the ground.

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of a sporting device with a foot extension in one embodiment. Often with practicing, be it golf, baseball, etc., the rotating foot is ideally set a specific distance from the planted foot. As an example, when driving a golf ball with a larger club, the golfer wants to have their feet separated by a greater distance than their shoulder width. The foot extension 116 allows the separation to be set.

In FIG. 7, imagine a golfer has their right foot on the foot plate 101 and their left food on the foot extension 116. The golfer will be facing downward in this situation. When the golfer takes a swing with a driver, their right foot, the foot on the foot plate 101 will rotate. The foot extension 116 allows the off-foot, the left foot in this example, to be set by stops 119 which engage with the foot extension 116. In this instance, the left food of the golfer would be located between the two stops 119 on the right side of the foot extension 116.

The golfer's stance will be adjusted depending upon the club being used. A heavier club generally requires a wider stance, whereas a smaller club requires a narrower stance. The desired stance can be obtained by moving the stops 119 at various locations along the foot extension 116. The placement of the stops 119 is adjustable along the length of the foot extension 116. Thus, the user can adjust the stops 119 to yield a desirable stance for that specific club, for example. The user would then practice with that specific stance and eventually that stance will become engrained in the golfer's mind. When the golfer changes clubs, the stops 119 can be adjusted to yield a varying stance width.

Thus, the sporting device simultaneously teaches a golfer to pivot the foot while maintaining the proper stance with the off foot. The same benefit is applicable in other sports mentioned above, such as baseball. When hitting a baseball, difference stances are employed. The foot extension 117 allows the user to vary the stance on the off foot.

As depicted, the foot extensions comprise two foot extension segments 116a, 116b which are removeably coupled at their distal ends. Having smaller foot extension segments 116a, 116b reduces the size of the sporting device. This makes the sporting device more compact and easier to carry. However, in other embodiments the foot extension 116 comprises a single piece which can be longer than the two segmented pieces shown in FIG. 7.

Turning to FIG. 8, FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a foot extension in one embodiment. The foot extension 116 has an extension coupler 117 at each distal end. Specifically, it has a male extension coupler 117 on the left distal end and a female extension coupler 117 on the right distal end. This enables this foot extension 116 to be coupled at the distal ends with other similar foot extensions 116. As will be described in more detail later, it also allows the foot extension 116 to be coupled to the sporting device body.

As shown, the foot extension 116 has a plurality of recesses 118 along its length. The recesses 118, rectangular as depicted, receive the stops 119. Having a plurality of recesses 118 provides increased options for locating the stops 119 along the length of the foot extension 116.

It should be noted, that while a mechanical coupling of the stops 119 with distinct and separated recesses 118 is depicted, this is for illustrative purposes only. In other embodiments, for example, the stops 119 are slideably coupled to the foot extension such that the stop 119 can be stopped at any point along the foot extension 116 length as opposed to locations of the recess. As an example, in one embodiment the stops comprise an internal spring to cause tension with the foot extension 116, causing the stops 119 to remain in place. When a user releases that tension on the stop 119, the stop 119 can slide to a new location. In still other embodiments the stops 119 are slideable along the length of the foot extension 116 and are secured in place by a screw, tensioner, or the like. Thus, when the screw or tension is released, the stop 119 is allowed to slide along the foot extension 116. When the stop 119 is in its desired location, the tension is increased and the stop 119 is now in a steady and fixed relationship with the foot extension. Thus, in one embodiment the stops 119 are adjustable along the length of the foot extension 116 to allow proper placement of a user's foot.

As shown in FIG. 8, there are two stops 119. The user would place their foot between the stops 119. To adjust the location of the stops 119, the user would decouple the stops 119 with the recess 118 and then move the stops 119 to a different recess 118.

FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of a stop in one embodiment. As shown the stop 119 has a generally T-shape. The foot rest 120 intersects the knub 121. The foot rest 120 is the portion of the stop 119 which engages a foot whereas the knub 121 is the portion which is received by the recess. As noted, while a T-shape stop is depicted, this is for illustrative purposes only and there are other devices to secure the stop 119 to the foot extension 116. One benefit of the mechanical coupling of the stop 119 and the recess 118 is that no external tools or parts are necessary to couple and decouple the stop from the foot extension 116. This is an advantage because, for example, a golfer need not bring a screw driver to adjust the stop 119 in order to practice a swing.

In one embodiment the stop 119 and/or the foot extension 116 comprises straps, guides, or the like to secure the foot in the desired location. For example, in one embodiment a strap extends between stops 119 to ensure the foot is not removed from the position adjacent the stops 119. The stops 119 and/or foot extension 117 can have straps or guides that couple the front, top, and/or back of the user's foot.

FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of a sporting device in one embodiment. As can be seen, one end of the sporting device comprises a body coupler 115. The body coupler 115 can comprise any shape or device known in the art to allow the foot extension 116 to couple with the sporting device 100. In one embodiment, and as depicted, the body coupler 115 comprises a similar couple to the coupler on the foot extension 116. This allows, for example, either segment of the foot extension 116 to engage with the sporting device 100. One benefit of such couplers is that no additional tools are required to assemble the foot extension 116 and couple it to the body coupler 115. Instead, the couplers depicted fit in a male-female relationship like a puzzle. The friction between adjoining couplers maintains them in their desired location.

It should be noted that while mechanical couplers requiring no external parts are disclosed, this is for illustrative purposes only and should not be deemed limiting. The foot extension 116 can be coupled to the body coupler 115 via any method or device known in the art, including but not limited to screws, bolts, snaps, and other such devices.

As can be seen in FIG. 10, the body coupler 115 extends through the central body 102. However, as shown, in one embodiment the body coupler 115 does not extend to the cover 103. Thus, the body coupler 115, as depicted, is not visible from the top side. The cover 103 layer acts to secure the body coupler 115 in place as the received foot extension 116 must stay down below the cover 103.

Now that the device has been described, the method of using the device will now be described. The device is first coupled to the foot extension. The stops are adjusted and secured in the necessary location to obtain the desired stance. As noted, the desired stance is the distance between the user's two feet. The desired stance will be dictated by the sport they are practicing. As an example, as previously noted, for golfing a larger club will require a larger stance. Thus, the stops can be adjusted, and secured as necessary, to obtain the desired stance.

The user places a first foot on the rotating plate, and a second foot on the foot extension. In one embodiment the second foot is located adjacent a stop. In another embodiment the foot is sandwiched between two adjacent stops.

Thereafter, the user applies a torque causing the first foot to rotate on the foot plate. The torque can be generated by a variety of activities including swinging a bat, throwing a ball, swinging a golf club, etc. As noted, by reducing the friction on the foot plate, the user is encouraged and trained to rotate the first foot. Further, simultaneously, the second foot is secured in the desired stance by the stops. This trains the user of the correct stance.

While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to a preferred embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

ADDITIONAL DESCRIPTION

The following clauses are offered as further description of the disclosed invention.

-   Clause 1. A sporting device comprising:     -   a foot plate supported by a central plate;     -   a central body with a void, wherein said central plate fits         within said void;     -   wherein said central plate can rotate relative to said central         body; and     -   wherein said central body comprises a body coupler. -   Clause 2. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     wherein said central plate comprises an outer void, and wherein said     central body comprises at least one block which extends inward and     aligns with said outer void. -   Clause 3. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     wherein said at least one block restricts rotation of said central     plate. -   Clause 4. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     wherein said central plate comprises a rotational degree of freedom     of between about 20 degrees and about 180 degrees. -   Clause 5. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     wherein said central plate comprises a rotational degree of freedom     of between about 15 degrees and about 90 degrees. -   Clause 6. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     wherein said central body comprises an internal periphery void     adjacent to said central plate, and wherein said central plate     comprises at least one block which extends outward and aligns with     said internal periphery void. -   Clause 7. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     further comprising ball bearings which allow rotation of said     central plate relative to said central body. -   Clause 8. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     further comprising an intermediate plate located below said foot     plate and above said central late. -   Clause 9. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     further comprising a cover located above said central body and below     said foot plate, and wherein said cover comprises an internal void,     and wherein said intermediate plate fits within said internal void. -   Clause 10. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     further comprising a cover located above said central body and below     said foot plate. -   Clause 11. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     wherein said foot plate comprises friction knubs. -   Clause 12. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     further comprising a base located beneath said central body. -   Clause 13. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     further comprising:     -   ball bearings which allow rotation of said central plate         relative to said central body;     -   an intermediate plate located below said foot plate and above         said central plate;     -   a cover located above said central body and below said foot         plate; and     -   a base located beneath said central body. -   Clause 14. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     further comprising at least one foot extension removeably coupled to     said body coupler. -   Clause 15. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     wherein said foot extension comprises at least one stop which is     moveable along said food extension's length. -   Clause 16. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     wherein said foot extension comprises recesses along its length, and     further comprising at least one stop which couples with said recess. -   Clause 17. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     further comprising two foot extensions which are releaseably     coupled. -   Clause 18. The sporting device of any proceeding or preceding claim     wherein said base further comprises a body coupler, and wherein said     body coupler of said base is the same as the body coupler on said     central body. -   Clause 19. A method of training on a sporting device, said sporting     device comprising:     -   a foot plate supported by a central plate;     -   a central body with a void, wherein said central plate fits         within said void;     -   wherein said central plate can rotate relative to said central         body;     -   wherein said central body comprises a body coupler;     -   at least one foot extension removeably coupled to said body         coupler;     -   at least one stop which is moveable along said foot extension's         length, wherein         said method comprises:     -   placing a first rotating foot on the foot plate;     -   adjusting said at least one stop along the length of the foot         extension to obtain a desired stance;     -   securing said stop along the length;     -   placing a second off foot on the foot extension adjacent one of         said at least one stop;     -   applying a torque to rotate said first rotating foot. -   Clause 20. The method of claim 19 wherein said applying a torque     comprises swinging a golf club. -   Clause 21. The method of claim 19 wherein said applying a torque     comprises swinging a baseball bat. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A sporting device comprising: a foot plate supported by a central plate; a central body with a void, wherein said central plate fits within said void; wherein said central plate can rotate relative to said central body; and wherein said central body comprises a body coupler.
 2. The sporting device of claim 1 wherein said central plate comprises an outer void, and wherein said central body comprises at least one block which extends inward and aligns with said outer void.
 3. The sporting device of claim 2 wherein said at least one block restricts rotation of said central plate.
 4. The sporting device of claim 1 wherein said central plate comprises a rotational degree of freedom of between about 20 degrees and about 180 degrees.
 5. The sporting device of claim 1 wherein said central plate comprises a rotational degree of freedom of between about 15 degrees and about 90 degrees.
 6. The sporting device of claim 1 wherein said central body comprises an internal periphery void adjacent to said central plate, and wherein said central plate comprises at least one block which extends outward and aligns with said internal periphery void.
 7. The sporting device of claim 1 further comprising ball bearings which allow rotation of said central plate relative to said central body.
 8. The sporting device of claim 1 further comprising an intermediate plate located below said foot plate and above said central late.
 9. The sporting device of claim 4 further comprising a cover located above said central body and below said foot plate, and wherein said cover comprises an internal void, and wherein said intermediate plate fits within said internal void.
 10. The sporting device of claim 1 further comprising a cover located above said central body and below said foot plate.
 11. The sporting device of claim 1 wherein said foot plate comprises friction knubs.
 12. The sporting device of claim 1 further comprising a base located beneath said central body.
 13. The sporting device of claim 1 further comprising: ball bearings which allow rotation of said central plate relative to said central body; an intermediate plate located below said foot plate and above said central plate; a cover located above said central body and below said foot plate; and a base located beneath said central body.
 14. The sporting device of claim 1 further comprising at least one foot extension removeably coupled to said body coupler.
 15. The sporting device of claim 14 wherein said foot extension comprises at least one stop which is moveable along said food extension's length.
 16. The sporting device of claim 14 wherein said foot extension comprises recesses along its length, and further comprising at least one stop which couples with said recess.
 17. The sporting device of claim 14 further comprising two foot extensions which are releaseably coupled.
 18. The sporting device of claim 13 wherein said base further comprises a body coupler, and wherein said body coupler of said base is the same as the body coupler on said central body.
 19. A method of training on a sporting device, said sporting device comprising: a foot plate supported by a central plate; a central body with a void, wherein said central plate fits within said void; wherein said central plate can rotate relative to said central body; wherein said central body comprises a body coupler; at least one foot extension removeably coupled to said body coupler; at least one stop which is moveable along said foot extension's length, wherein said method comprises: placing a first rotating foot on the foot plate; adjusting said at least one stop along the length of the foot extension to obtain a desired stance; securing said stop along the length; placing a second off foot on the foot extension adjacent one of said at least one stop; applying a torque to rotate said first rotating foot.
 20. The method of claim 19 wherein said applying a torque comprises swinging a golf club. 